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Foreign Minister Westerwelle on Arab-European cooperation

Nov 13, 2012

Attending a meeting of EU and Arab League Foreign Ministers in Cairo, Germany's Foreign Minister Dr Guido Westerwelle today commented on Arab-European cooperation and on Germany's support for the Syrian opposition:

"I would like to thank the Arab League for organising this meeting. Cooperation between the EU and the Arab League has enormous potential.

The EU will continue to mobilise means to support changes in the Arab world within the framework of its neighborhood policy. People need to see a positive dividend of their efforts to bring about democratic changes in their respective countries.

The Arab League is our key partner for peace and stability in the region.

Concerning the tragic conflict in Syria, the recently formed „National Coalition“ of opposition forces is an important step towards a united opposition. The German government supports this initiative and is ready to join hands with the Arab League to help it become a credible and inclusive alternative to the Assad regime.

The German government will continue to support sanctions against the Assad regime and it will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to refugees and victims of the conflict.

The resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is more urgent than ever. We have to work jointly for a resumption of negotiations."